Henley Hockey Club Men's 5ths team travelled to Staines on Saturday for what was expected to be a closely fought match. Starting brightly Staines pressed Henley for the opening period, playing largely in the Henley half. The back three - marshalled by Dan Austin, flanked by Jon Williams and Piers Edgell absorbed the pressure, eventually creating outlets through the midfield of Ed Newbold and Rowan Austin. Henley picked up pace, and a through ball to centre forward Noel WIlliams was picked up and following a high speed drive on goal slotted home for the opener. This galvanized Henley, who began to push into Staines' half and create a series of chances, with Noel Williams again collecting a ball in the D and flicking the ball high for his second. Late into the half Henley won a penalty corner, which Willliams again struck on goal, with an excellent save from the keeper being gathered by George Austin and nudged in for his debut adult goal for the club.

The second half saw Henley's colts - G Austin, Dylan Cox and Thomas Wigfield coming strongly into the game, and beginning to direct the play. A cagey 35 minutes played out, and Henley were unlucky to be caught temporarily off guard for Staines to claim one back. The 3-1 win was an excellent result and showed just what the team are capable of when the ball is moved at pace and the team moves intelligently. The team are now looking forward to hosting Newbury next week at home.